As hiring becomes global and more employees work remotely, video interviews have become more commonplace. If you’re trying to find a new job during this pandemic, you will most likely be asked to participate in a video interview. Here are a few key tips for a successful video interview so that you can feel confident with the process:

1. Test Your Internet Connection. The last thing you want during your interview is a technology malfunction. To avoid this, test your internet connection and log into any platform you will be using.
2. Check Your Camera Quality. Set up your camera and any headset or microphone as if you were going to do the actual interview. If possible, use the same video technology that you’ll be using during the actual interview. That way, you won’t have any last-minute installation issues or password problems right before your interview. Set your webcam at eye level. A poorly placed webcam can result in unflattering double chins or weird shadows. 
3. Conduct a Sound Check. Check to make sure your sound equipment works properly. Test the quality of your computer microphone, and make sure there aren’t any echos! Make sure that you are in a quiet space with no barking dogs, children, music, or other sounds. As well, turn off your phone and any alerts on your computer to avoid getting thrown off by emails or instant messages during the interview. The microphone will pick up any noise in the room, so don’t tap your pen or shuffle papers even if you are nervous!
4. Clear Your Space. Make sure your background is not distracting! Does it look cluttered? Plan to have your background be tidy. A plain wall is ideal, or an office-like setting. Pay attention to the lighting, too. Weird lighting can cause unflattering shadows to cast across your face. 
5. Dress the Part: Just because you are not face-to-face does not make this any more casual. You want to be well-groomed and well-dressed, and yes that includes pants! Even though you’ll probably be sitting down during the job interview, you may need to stand up (if you need to retrieve something during the interview, for instance). So, don’t dress too casually below the waist. You want the interviewers to focus on you and not on what you are wearing.

With the world we live in today, it’s time to embrace video interviews and work at recording them successfully. While it may seem like a lot to remember, these video interview tips can help you adjust to the intricacies of interacting with a remote team. With the successful video interviewing tips above, you’re certain to have a solid start to edge out your competition.